Last year's beaten finalist Justine Henin taken to three sets by Indian qualifier Sania Mirza

Justine Henin hopes her three-set victory over Sania Mirza will give her the rhythm she requires to launch a bid to claim the Australian Open title.

The 11th-seeded Belgian, playing her first tour match since losing to countrywoman Kim Clijsters in the last 16 at Wimbledon last year due to an elbow injury, overcame the Indian 5-7 6-3 6-1 to set up a second-round clash with Britain's Elena Baltacha.

Henin said before the tournament that she was short of match practice and felt tonight's longer-than-expected clash might help her long-term.

Determined: Justine Henin of Belgium beat Sania Mirza 5-7, 6-3, 6-1

She said: 'I think I need this kind of match to really get into the tournament like I want to be and at my best level.

'Of course I have the experience but I need matches, I need rhythm and I need fight, like tonight. I remain confident, not only about this tournament but also the future.'

Strangely for a seven-time grand slam winner, there were plenty of pre-match butterflies before she went on court.

Henin added: 'I was feeling very nervous before going out. Even if you have experience, the first round of a grand slam, especially after a long injury...you never really know what to expect so I can be happy with that. Now I want to keep going.

'Even though I have had a few troubles the last few months, I still have a lot of ambition and this kind of match is going to help.'

World No 1 Caroline Wozniacki survived a tricky opening assignment as she overcame Gisela Dulko.

Dane Wozniacki was pushed by Dulko, who tops the doubles rankings, before securing a 6-3 6-4 win on Rod Laver Arena.

Unlucky loser: Sania Mirza of India gave Justine Henin a tough test

Argentinian Dulko had far greater variety and a defter touch at the net but Wozniacki's heavier hitting from the back of the court proved decisive.

'Gisela is a tough opponent, especially in the first round. She changes the rhythm quite a bit so it's tough to get there and play your own game,' said Wozniacki afterwards.

'I'm really happy to be through to the next round. I'm feeling in good shape and looking forward to play the next one.'